Review of Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013) by Jorge R — 11 Nov 2013

In spite of the controversy surrounding its making, "Blue Is the Warmest Color" is a perfectly chiseled work of naturalism. Each shot scrutinizes with utmost precision, intimacy and tenderness all the skin imperfections, secretions, and behavioral ticks that make its two female leads so profoundly human.

While this coming-of-age, coming-out story focuses on the first lesbian encounter of its main character, Adele, the social ramifications of that relationship prove the most nuanced and compelling. Seeing the permanently unruly-haired, working class Adele gravitate toward the artsy, well-educated, somewhat pretentious Emma gives way to a raw, passionate romance.

It also raises profound questions about how we (re)present ourselves in society. Regardless of her feelings toward the film or its director, actress Exarchopoulos delivers a commanding, emotionally truthful performance that beautifully conflicts with her onscreen romance, who is all pretense.